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Often when people think of taking a cruise, the first destinations that come to mind are the tropical paradises of the Caribbean islands and the Mexican coast. Cruise lines offer more than just fun-in-the-sun cruises, including some the explore the majestic beauty of Northern Europe. Explore the fjords, narrow inlets carved by glaciers, that dot the coastlines of countries such as Iceland and Norway with a Northern European cruise. Explore ports of call in these countries to experience the best of Icelandic and Norwegian cultures.

Weather and Packing

Many cruise ships depart for the Norwegian and Icelandic coast from London in the early summer. Iceland and Norway both feature a cool, summer climate with moderate temperatures, though Norway tends to be significantly warmer than Iceland. In Norway, summer temperatures range between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Iceland summers range between 50 and 54. Pack layered clothing including long pants and sweaters for off-ship excursions. Be sure to include a pair of waterproof walking shoes and a waterproof jacket. Summer weather is often wet, especially along the fjords.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers a 12-day excursion exploring the fjords of Iceland and Norway. Departing from London, the cruise takes passengers through five ports of call in Norway including Bergen, Olden, Hellesylt, Gerainger and Alesund. In Iceland, guests have the opportunity to explore Akureyri and Reykjavik. In Olden, sail along the waters of the Nordfjord and experience rolling, green farmlands nestled between mountains and glaciers. In Geiranger, the Geirangerfjord takes guests nine miles into the mountains. Bordered by cliffs 2,000 feet high in places, the landscape includes beautiful waterfalls leading to the tiny village. In Reykjavik, explore the area known as the land of fire and ice, where ice fields border thermal pools.

P&O Cruise: Dublin, Iceland, Norway and Belgium

P&O Cruises offers vacationers the opportunity to spend 14 days exploring several destinations in Northern Europe. Guests sail from Southampton, England, to Dublin, Ireland, before cruising to Iceland, Norway and Belgium. Explore Grafton Street in Dublin for world-class shopping. In Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland, look for a sculpture made from lava rocks or relax in the thermal spas. Alesund, Norway, provides a gateway to the Geirangerfjord and features colorful architecture along the three islands making up the city. In Belgium, get a feel for medieval European architecture, fine chocolate and homemade lace.

P&O Cruise: Iceland and Norway

P&O also offers another 14-day cruise that leaves from Southampton and explores Iceland and Norway. Other than a one-day stop in Dublin, Ireland, all of this cruises ports of call are along the shores of Norway or Iceland. Iceland destinations include Reykjavik, Akureyri and Isafjordor. Norwegian destinations include Alesund, Geiranger, Bergen and Stavanger. Cruise passengers have a full-day at each destination. Known for its art culture, Isafjordor offers a folk museum, art galleries and plenty of local characters. In Stavanger, Norway, explore the Gamle Stavanger, or old quarter. This neighborhood, located next to the cruise harbor, features a collection of 200-year-old white houses.